The West Yorkshire Archaeology Advisory Service are Wakefield Council’s archaeological advisers and were able to obtain the funding for the excavation from Historic England, on behalf of the Council. The WYAAS will be providing specialist archaeological advice and support to WMDC in managing the project. They also hold and maintain the West Yorkshire Historic Environment Record which is freely accessible to anyone interested in researching the archaeology of West Yorkshire
Wakefield Council manages Pontefract Castle on behalf of the Duchy of Lancaster and has demonstrated a huge commitment to preserving the heritage of the castle for current and future generations to enjoy.
A five year major capital project, the Key to the North, funded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund, Historic England and the Council was completed this summer and involved a major programme of conservation work to the ruins as well as a new visitor centre, paths and interpretation.
As part of that project, an unforeseen structure to the south of the gatehouse was discovered in 2016. The planned work in that area was halted while we completed the rest of the works.
Wakefield Council are grateful to Historic England for providing the funding to enable this area to be excavated and for the support and advice that they and WYAAS have given the Council in this matter.
Historic England are the public body that helps people care for, enjoy and celebrate England’s spectacular historic environment.
As an organisation, they protect, champion and save the places that define who we are and where we’ve come from as a nation. Historic England care passionately about the stories they tell, the ideas they represent and the people who live, work and play among them.
Working with communities and specialists, HE share their passion, knowledge and skills to inspire interest, care and conservation, so everyone can keep enjoying and looking after the history that surrounds us all.
